Monday, August 13, 2007

Lake Glenville: Highest Lake East of Mississippi River

Ridin' high on Lake Glenville: Highest lake east of Mississippi River sits at 3,500-feet above sea level

Boaters pause to enjoy Norton Falls, one of the many waterfalls that flow into Lake Glenville.

By Amy Williams, Chronicle Intern

At 3,500-feet above sea level, Lake Glenville is the highest lake east of the Mississippi River. Aside from breathtaking views, the lake also has plenty of opportunities for adrenaline rush and excitement.

After spending a few hours on the lake on any given summer weekend, boaters will see personal watercraft, speed boats, pontoon boats, paddlers, wake boarders, water skiers, anglers, tubers, sunbathers and swimmers.A personal watercraft user enjoys a day out on the lake and a chance to show off his moves.

"The lake is the only thing that isn't moving," laughs Phyllis Dargel, who owns Mountain View Marine Inc.

Those who don't own a dock where they can put a boat into the lake, can use the public, handicap-accessible dock on Pine Creek Rd., just before the dam, on the left. Dargel and her husband paid for this dock as a way of contributing back to the community.

"Everyone should be able to use this lake," said Dargel, who enjoys spending a few hours out on the lake with her grandchildren. "The clean waters and pretty views are what make it special."

Although there is a lot of speed and activity on Lake Glenville, some of the favorite uses of this lake, are just for kicking-back. Those who want to motor around the lake, relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery, should be sure to visit Lake Glenville's waterfalls.

At the very south tip of the lake is Hurricane Falls, a waterfall that is only visible by boat, as it pours directly into the lake. In the middle of the lake is Norton Falls and towards the north end of the island is Mills Creek Falls.

"We love this lake. We enjoy being able to escape the city and go somewhere where there's still nature and where people are nice to each other," said Dargel.

Sailors may be tempted by the lake's pretty views and coves, but should be aware that the lake isn't exactly ideal for sailboats. The mountains and coves often prevent the wind needed for these boats to get moving, however a few devoted sailors can be seen on the lake on weekends.

Explorers will love to spend time discovering all the little nooks and crannies of the lake's 26 miles of shoreline and a few of the islands that are accessible to the public. Boaters can beach on one of the little islands at the north end of the lake, near the dam and camp or simply play on its tiny beaches.

"Just a great place for your family to spend a day, a week or a summer. There's probably something for everyone of all ages," said Joanna Lanciano, who spends her summers in Glenville on the lake.